That's horrible news for Gronk and bad news for Tom Brady, as well. Gronkowski has been Brady's big-play target since his season debut on Nov. 3. In five games, Gronkowski caught 39 passes for 592 yards and four touchdowns. Brady targeted the athletic tight end a total of 67 times.

Despite playing in a handful of games, Gronkowski is the Patriots' second-leading pass catcher. Julian Edelman, targeted 110 times with 76 receptions, has 775 receiving yards.

The passing game was a weekly adventure into the unknown until Gronkowski was cleared to play following surgeries on his forearm and back. The former proved especially troublesome and was the primary reason Gronkowski's 2013 return was delayed for so long.

Running back Shane Vereen may offer some relief for Brady. He has 40 catches and has expanded the options for Brady.